Caesar Chicken Bowl

Experience the perfect balance of fresh greens and savory protein with this Caesar Chicken Bowl. A vibrant, protein-packed meal featuring juicy grilled chicken breast over crisp romaine lettuce, this dish is elevated with shaved parmesan, crunchy croutons, and a rich, creamy homemade dressing. It is ideal for a satisfying lunch or a light, wholesome dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes.

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This bowl takes the timeless flavors of a classic Caesar salad and turns it into a substantial main dish. By grilling the chicken with Italian herbs and garlic, we ensure every bite is bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy, sharp notes of the parmesan and the brightness of fresh lemon juice.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g), 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
• For the Salad: 2 large heads romaine lettuce (chopped), 1 cup (40 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese, 1 1/2 cups (60 g) croutons.
• For the Caesar Dressing: 1/3 cup (80 ml) mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 small garlic clove (minced), salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions

1. Heat the Grill

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season on both sides with garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper.

3. Grill and Rest

Grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

4. Make the Dressing

While the chicken cooks, prepare the Caesar dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.

5. Toss the Greens

In a large salad bowl, toss chopped romaine lettuce with half of the Caesar dressing.

6. Assemble the Bowls

Divide lettuce among 4 bowls. Top each with sliced grilled chicken, parmesan, and croutons. Drizzle with additional dressing as desired.

7. Serve

Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, ensure your grill is fully preheated before adding the chicken to achieve a perfect sear. Resting the chicken for at least 5 minutes before slicing is essential to keep the juices locked inside, ensuring every slice is tender.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra depth of flavor, consider adding anchovy fillets to the dressing. If you prefer a different protein, substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian version. You can also use whole-grain or gluten-free croutons to meet specific dietary needs.

Serviervorschläge

This Caesar Chicken Bowl pairs exceptionally well with a crisp glass of Chardonnay or a refreshing sparkling water with a twist of lemon. It is best served immediately while the chicken is warm and the lettuce is at its crispest.

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With its combination of warm grilled protein and cool, crunchy vegetables, the Caesar Chicken Bowl is a versatile recipe that never goes out of style. Simple to prepare yet impressively flavorful, it is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Questions & Answers

→ How do I grill the chicken properly?

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the chicken with olive oil and season both sides with garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

→ Can I make the Caesar dressing ahead?

Yes, the dressing can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Whisk well before using, as the ingredients may separate slightly when chilled. This makes assembly quick when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for the chicken?

Grilled shrimp work beautifully as a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, use firm tofu pressed and grilled, or portobello mushroom slices. Both alternatives pair well with the Caesar flavors and maintain the protein content of the bowl.

→ How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free croutons or substitute with toasted gluten-free bread cubes. Check your Worcestershire sauce label, as some brands contain gluten. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store components separately for best results. Keep sliced chicken, dressed lettuce, croutons, and extra dressing in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken keeps for 3-4 days, but dressed lettuce is best eaten within 24 hours as it wilts quickly.

→ Can I add more vegetables to the bowl?

Absolutely. Cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, bell peppers, or red onion all complement the Caesar flavors. Avocado adds creaminess that works well with the dressing. Just keep in mind that adding more vegetables may require additional dressing.